39 ms·
Correct me if I’m wrong, but isn’t it entirely possible for your cellular provider to block you from using their network based on what phone your physical SIM c
by dangus 3y ago
Correct me if I’m wrong, but isn’t it entirely possible for your cellular provider to block you from using their network based on what phone your physical SIM card is installed in?
To me, the physical SIM card just seems like an old technical limitation. The concerns surrounding its elimination don’t seem to have strong backing in my mind.
- jaywalk 3y agoAbsolutely, that's the phone's IMEI. It's how stolen phones can be blocked, for example.
- bandergirl 3y agoSIM or eSIM here is irrelevant. The operator will block a specific IMEI that was reported stolen, so any future users will not be able to use a SIM/eSIM from that specific operator in that phone. > To me, the physical SIM card just seems like an old technical limitation The SIM/eSIM is just your ID card to connect to the network, I don't see it as a limitation. The only difference now is that you can verify your identity and download it, rather than visit a store.
- daveoc64 3y agoYes, and some carriers do. Some will have a list of "supported devices", and if you try to use anything not on the list it'll be blocked. This isn't legal in some countries though. The UK telecoms regulator (Ofcom) prohibits any form of restriction on putting SIMs into devices, for example. Previously carriers would do things like saying that a SIM on a plan for phones couldn't be used in a tablet. A physical SIM or eSIM doesn't make a lot of difference with this, although a carrier obviously can't do anything to stop you moving a physical SIM between device. Changing an eSIM often requires contact with the carrier, so that's an opportunity for them to say no/make it difficult/charge a fee.